Deadly Blast in Mardan, Pakistan: 3 Killed, 7 Injured
A remote-controlled explosive device detonated on the Jalala bridge in Takhtbhai, Mardan, Pakistan, causing a deadly blast. The explosion resulted in the deaths of three people and injuries to seven others, including two police officers. The blast damaged a police van and a rickshaw.
This incident underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. Following the fall of Kabul, there has been an escalation of explosions and security incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Report on Violence in Pakistan
A recent report by Pakistan’s Centre for Research and Security Studies highlights the impact of violence in the country during the second quarter of 2024. The report reveals that Pakistan experienced 380 deaths and 220 injuries from 240 incidents, including terrorist attacks and counter-terror operations.
| Region | Percentage of Fatalities | Percentage of Attacks |
|---|---|---|
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | 92% | 87% |
| Balochistan | 92% | 87% |
The report indicates that Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa saw increases in violence, with fatalities rising by 13% and 31% respectively. Civilian casualties constituted 62% of the total fatalities, with incidents targeting ethnic groups in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alongside sectarian violence. Security personnel, including police and military officials, were also frequent targets.
Historical Context and Impact
Pakistan’s historical use of terror groups as proxies to advance strategic interests, particularly in its rivalry with India and involvement in Afghanistan, has exacerbated internal instability. This strategy dates back to the 1980s Soviet-Afghan War, when Pakistan supported mujahideen fighters against the Soviet Union.
In the context of Kashmir, Pakistan has provided financial and logistical support to terrorist groups operating in the region, which have targeted Indian security forces and civilians. However, these once-supported terror groups have now turned against the state, resulting in widespread violence, attacks on civilians and security forces, and a challenging security landscape.
The presence of such groups on Pakistani soil has compromised state sovereignty, especially in tribal and border areas with Afghanistan, which have occasionally become safe havens for terrorists, posing threats to both Pakistan and regional stability.
The ramifications of terrorism extend beyond security concerns, adversely impacting Pakistan’s economy. The country has experienced reduced foreign investment, decreased tourism, and diverted resources that could have otherwise been allocated to development towards security and counter-terrorism efforts.
